utilitarianism

noun

util·​i·​tar·​i·​an·​ism (ˌ)yü-ˌti-lə-ˈter-ē-ə-ˌni-zəm 

1

: a doctrine that the useful is the good and that the determining consideration of right conduct should be the usefulness of its consequences

specifically : a theory that the aim of action should be the largest possible balance of pleasure over pain or the greatest happiness of the greatest number

2

: utilitarian character, spirit, or quality

Examples of utilitarianism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Third Form Merryn Kelly’s Third Form blends progressive garment design and the everyday utilitarianism of a modern woman’s closet. —Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 23 Apr. 2025

Even philosophies of meaning (Marxism, nationalism, utilitarianism) took on a mechanistic bent. —Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

Namely that, because his utilitarianism placed central importance on the minimization of suffering and the maximization of pleasure, and because non-human animals like the venerable Reverend can suffer, that animals deserve substantial ethical consideration. —Rafael Perez, Orange County Register, 15 Mar. 2025

Alarmingly, 78% of respondents demonstrate attitudes focused on utilitarianism rather than conservation, highlighting a concerning trend. —Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for utilitarianism

• antiquarianism
• congregationalism
• constitutionalism
• cosmopolitanism
• electromagnetism
• environmentalism
• epicureanism
• evangelicalism
• experimentalism
• hyperparathyroidism
• hypoparathyroidism
• individualism